The Government's new strategy to tackle violence against women and girls

The Government’s announcement today (18th December) of measures to support women and girls affected by sexual violence and domestic abuse together with better care for child survivors of sexual abuse shows the determination of the Government to tackle violence perpetrated against women and girls. 

Commitments have been made to ensure :

By 2029 there will be a specialist rape and sexual offences team in every Police force, to assist in apprehending abusers and enabling non recent cases to be brought against the perpetrator.

By 2029 in every area of England there will be a dedicated referral service for women and girls affected by violence and abuse, allowing GPs to spot victims of abuse more quickly and to ensure that they are referred to support services.

A nationwide expansion of the Child House Model, providing all the NHS regions of England a one location centre providing multi agency support and care for child sexual abuse survivors.

This is a clear move forward in cracking down on violence perpetrated against women, girls and child sexual abuse and ensuring survivors of abuse have access to justice.   It has been described as a “ landmark change” in response to one of the recommendations of IICSA, which called for better support for victims of child sexual abuse.

The Child House Model provides survivors with access to the police, social care, health, advocacy, support and care without suffering triggering trauma by having to be passed to different services and having to recount their experiences. A one roof model that brings all organisations together will help survivors to safely disclose their experiences, receive justice and the support they need for their recovery.

We welcome the Government’s announcement.